FESTIVE revellers are being offered anti-tamper bottle tops so they can enjoy nights out without fear of having their drinks spiked.

Cheshire Police’s licensing enforcement officer Pete Goring says that while there is no forensic proof that bottles of alcohol are being tampered with, the fear of ‘drink spiking’ is high.

He added: “We want people to enjoy their nights out and we want to make sure everyone stays safe.”

Special police officers have had additional training through the year and are now supporting regular officers by carrying out visits to licensed premises where they will offer drinkers free anti-tamper bottle tops.

Chester Crime Prevention Panel has financed the initiative through ‘Crimebeat’.

Panel chairman Ann Charlton said: “Although the police have no evidence to show that drinks are being spiked, the fear of having a ‘date rape’ drug sneaked into a drink is high.

“Young people in our pubs and clubs will walk around with their thumb in the neck of a bottle to stop anyone interfering with the contents.

“The anti-tamper tops means drinks can be left on a table and people can enjoy their night out without worrying about their drink being spiked.”

Police are also urging drinkers to make sure they have a safe night out by taking a few simple steps:

If you are out in a group have one person designated as the driver, with that person having soft drinks or water through the night. If you haven’t got a driver, pre-book a taxi to make sure you get home safely.

Pace your drinking and have water or soft drinks in-between alcoholic ones.

Respect other people’s nights out by avoiding loud or offensive behaviour.

The combination of alcohol and freezing weather can be a lethal combination, so wrap up warm.